Channel 12 News, Haaretz and Israel Hayom: Vandalism suspect facing indictment
A prosecutor's statement was filed against a 40-year-old resident of Ramat Gan, suspected of five incidents of property damage and extortion by threats against media outlets and the Ministry of Justice. In the coming days, the State Attorney's Office is expected to file a serious indictment against him.
Following an investigation by the Central Unit of the Tel Aviv District Police, a prosecutor's statement was filed this morning (Sunday) against a suspect involved in five incidents of property damage and extortion by threats against several media outlets and the Ministry of Justice.
As part of an investigation conducted in recent weeks by the Tel Aviv Central Unit, evidence was collected regarding several serious criminal incidents. It was revealed that during July of this year, various reports were received regarding damage caused to the entrances of buildings housing the offices of media outlets: Channel 12 News, the Haaretz newspaper, Israel Hayom, as well as the Ministry of Justice building.
According to the investigation, the damage to the entrance doors was carried out using bricks and was apparently directed at the media outlets with the aim of deterring and threatening the manner of their coverage. In addition to the damage caused to the building doors, the suspect placed a letter of threats against media personnel and public figures at the entrance to Channel 12 News, near the location where he had thrown bricks on the night of July 28.
As the investigation progressed, Central Unit investigators identified the suspect, a 40-year-old resident of Ramat Gan, and traced his actions using technological means and covert operations. On July 30, the suspect was arrested and a search was conducted at his home, during which items of clothing and other evidence were seized that link him to the commission of the offenses. The suspect's detention has been extended periodically, and in the coming days, the State Attorney's Office will file a serious indictment against him.
The Israel Police views with great severity any attempt to harm state institutions and media bodies, especially those who attempt to instill fear in journalists to disrupt their work. Freedom of the press is one of the cornerstones of democracy, and the Israel Police will act with determination against anyone who attempts to use violence, bullying, or intimidation to silence freedom of speech.
